Suburbs vs. City

Yes I know.  I am behind the 8-ball when it comes to starting my own blog.  But reading all of the cool things my friends and family have to say on their blogs has inspired me to start my own.  Coming up with catchy titles is going to be a work-in-progress.  Right now, my concern is having interesting things to say to keep people wanting to read about my suburban life.  Living vicariously through my city-dwelling siblings is much cooler than them living vicariously through me - their married with dog, suburban-loving sister. 

I have always been that way though; never really a fan of the hustle and bustle of city-life which, if you kind of know me, may sound surprising.  If you really know me, not an earth-shattering revelation.  Insight: the thought of having to find a parking spot on Grace Street literally would give me hives.  The idea of sitting in Cubs traffic for 2.5 hours after work is my hell on earth.  And the never-ending emergency vehicle siren at all hours of the night is enough to rattle my nerves. 

On the flip side, however, there is nothing better than the summer in the city.  Being able to walk everywhere, the street festivals, the beach, the BYOBs, the people-watching.  Summers in the city of Chicago are by far the best.  We do our best to make the most of living in the suburbs.  We hang out in our little yard grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, and we wash cars in our drive way - both things that you can't do (without paying a HUGE premium) in the city. 

Its all about finding your niche.  Some people are perfectly happy with the amazing things the city can offer during the summer, and that helps to offset the misery that is winter in the city of Chicago.  Me, I much prefer visiting the city, taking advantage of what it has to offer, but then returing to my little suburban townhome, with my tight-wadded homeowner's association, and our golf course view.  There is something to be said for experiencing life in the city.  My moment in time was fleeting, and has since left.  I could never imagine living away from the city itself - as there are times when I need to get my fill.  I will always be within driving distance of my beloved Chicago - but I am thankful for having a nice cool garage to pull my car into at the end of a long day.